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By trying to break it down into other substances by chemical or physical means. If it eventually breaks down, it is not an element.

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Q: What would be the best way to identify whether or not an unknown substance is made of a certain element?
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Related questions

When might it be helpful to identify an unknown element?

It is helpful to identify an unknown element when you are exposed to a lot of it. This element could be very dangerous to you.


Knowing the solubility of an unknown substance in water can help to identify what it is.?

Knowing the solubility of an unknown substance in water can help you calculate its molarity. It is however important to get its weight first.


An unknown substance is made only of identical atoms that cannot be broken down. This substance is a .?

Element


An unknown substance is made only of identical atoms that cannot be broken down this substance is what?

An Element ... A substance that cannot be broken down into simpler substances by chemical means.


Name several properties of matter that help you identify an unknown substance?

Every thing


If an unknown substance CANNOT be broken down into simpler substances it is?

If an unknown substance cannot be broken down into simpler substances it is made of one kind of atom and an element.


What is meant by a characteristic property of a substance?

Since characteristic properties for a given substance never change, they can be used to identify unknown matter.


Why Do You Think Scientists Can Use The Basic Properties Of Matter To Help Identify An Unknown Substance?

Because if a substance can't be known then it has to prove its mass and volume


What can be used to identify an unknown substance?

Just about any property that can be observed or measured can help you reduce the number of options.


Why is it important to identify an unknown substance?

Because the substance could potentially be extremely toxic or harmful. You must never use an unknown substance in experiments without identifying it first, many tests can be undertaken to determine the cation and anion. These tests include the flame test, solubility tests, precipitate reaction tests and conductivity tests. These do vary depending on the unknown substance.


What is the purpose of adding an indicator to an unknown solution?

Indicators contain chemicals that will react with certain substances. If that substance is present in your unknown solution, a reaction will occur. If no reaction occurs, then that substance is not present in your solution


Why are solubility tests helpful to determine unknown substances?

A simple solubility test can be used to identify an unknown substance. Most substance will make a precipitate when around certain molecules.